Vitamin C for Cystic Acne

Cystic acne, the most severe type of acne, can leave you with painful, pus-filled cysts on your face and body. Leaving them alone go away naturally is not an option. Over--the--counter medications, prescription ointments and drugs as well as laser therapies are often used to treat cystic acne. Vitamin C may be an effective way to provide relief for cystic acne suffers.

Close up of oranges (Image: Nungning20/iStock/Getty Images)

Cystic Acne

Cystic acne is also known as acne vulgaris. Severe forms of acne are classified as nodules and cysts. Acne cysts are pus-filled and have a diameter of 5 millimeters or larger across, according to Acne.org.

While cystic acne can be unsightly and painful, lesions should be left alone. Picking on acne lesions can lead to scarring, painful inflammation and deeper infection. Dermatologists can often administer a cortisone injection to help reduce swelling, pain and scarring associated with cystic acne.

Vitamin C and Cystic Acne

Vitamin C -- or ascorbic acid -- is a powerful antioxidant that helps to promote the health of your immune system. Vitamin C helps to promote the healing, growth and repair of tissues throughout the body, according to "The Vitamin Book." Vitamin C is also necessary in the production of collagen, which helps to create new skin, form scar tissue as well as form blood vessels and tendons. The antioxidant properties of vitamin C help in skin regeneration. Vitamin C helps to protect skin from free radical damage as it heals.

Vitamin C sources

There are a number of ways to get vitamin C to help clear-up and prevent the formation of cystic acne. Vitamin C can be found in a number of foods you consume on a daily basis. Oranges, squash, orange juice, tomatoes, potatoes, spinach, cabbage, red peppers, green peppers, broccoli and cauliflower are all sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C can also be found in fortified products -- such as cereal. You can also obtain vitamin C through a supplement.

Considerations

Consult a dermatologist prior to beginning a vitamin C regime for cystic acne. A dermatologist can help determine the best course of treatment and the appropriate dosage of vitamin C for your cystic acne. The National Institutes of Health indicates adolescent boys -- ages 14 to 18 -- should consume 75 milligrams per day and adolescent females should consume 65 milligrams per day. Men 19 and older should consume 90 milligrams per day and women should consume 75 milligrams per day.